Those who know me and my journey abroad, know that the transition was difficult and my homesickness gets the best of me, even though I know + understand the immense benefits and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities we've been given. I would happily move home to Chicago - like now. However, I would be willing to sacrifice another year {or two} if that year gave us the chance to live in Italy.

I cannot even begin to describe my love for this country + its people. 5 days was not enough to enjoy each city we visited, and frankly, I'm unsure if a lifetime is enough time to really appreciate the Italian culture.

The Italian lifestyle is one filled with incredible scenery, astoundingly beautiful + friendly people, homemade, delectable food, beautiful language, and contagious energy. In fact, in 5 days, we befriended a couple Italians who actually had conversations with us, who wanted to get to know us and even offered to take us out; in comparison, we have yet to befriend a local Londoner or Englander, and we've lived here now for 16 months {yikes!}. Top that off by the beauty all around, where everything looks like a postcard and is oh, so instagrammable, you have yourself a dream life!

Our first stop was Milan, as that was where we flew into. Since it had more of a city feel, Ross and I only wanted to spend a night there as we needed a city break from our every day lives. While we didn't see any of Leonardo Da Vinci's work {"The Last Supper" is housed in Milan}, we did walk around the city enjoying its architecture + vibe. From the quaint side streets to charming canals, we enjoyed Milan {though maybe not as much as the other Italian cities}.

​The absolute best part of Milan that separated it from other towns in Italy was the fashion {I wish I creepily took pictures of random people for you guys!}. Everyone was impeccably dressed, even in the downpour, so it was fun to sit outside a cafe and gawk at those walking by. Further, it didn't feel as touristy as the other cities we visited.

Even the train station in Milan is stunning! Look at that architecture!

Milan's public transportation looks so charming.

Galleria Vittoria Emanuele II is the shopping mall pictured above. It is the world's oldest {and grandest, from what I saw!} mall.

Above, is Milan's Duomo {aka Italian cathedral}.

Milan's most romantic + charming neighborhood is Navigli, which consists of 5 canals. Ross + I walked around here before heading to Florence, but I wish we had more time to explore this area at night, as it's lined with cute cafes + bars.